Macs Gildoran misses Grand National date

MACS GILDORAN was the only surprise withdrawal from the Martell Cognac Grand National at yesterday's forfeit stage, leaving a total of 77 entries remaining in the race a week on Saturday.

The Irish 10-year-old had been a general 25-1 chance for the Aintree spectacular but his trainer Willie Mullins said: “He knocked himself behind and won’t run again this season.”

Noel Meade has taken out totesport Cheltenham Gold Cup third Harbour Pilot, who had been as short as 12-1 in some books following his gallant effort against Best Mate and Sir Rembrandt last Thursday.